An Architect's View: Body Positivity and Greek Columns

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I am an architect and run the telegram channel "Arkhitektorka/Arkhitektrisa", where I share my knowledge and experience in the field of architecture. I conduct tours of Moscow, introducing people to unique architectural solutions and the history of the city. My lectures on architecture are held all over the world, where I talk about modern trends and classical approaches to design. I also design fairytale houses, creating unique spaces that inspire. I am the author of the book "Architecture. What is Good and What is Bad", in which I examine the basic principles of architectural design and their impact on our lives.

Many who have attended art schools or tours of architectural monuments are familiar with the terminology of order architecture, which is present in many cities. The Doric order is often associated with the "masculine" principle, the Ionic order is considered "feminine", and the Corinthian order is designated as "maiden". These characteristics not only reflect the visual characteristics of each order but also imbue them with specific cultural and symbolic meanings. Understanding these aspects of architectural orders helps us better appreciate their role in history and culture. An architectural order is a key element of architectural composition, comprising vertical and horizontal structures such as columns and pilasters, as well as entablature. This decorative style plays an important role in creating harmony and symmetry in architecture, emphasizing the aesthetic appeal of buildings and structures. An architectural order serves not only a decorative but also a structural function, providing support and stability to structures. It is important to note that different types of orders, such as Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, have their own characteristic features and can significantly affect the overall perception of an architectural object.

Teachers and tour guides find it convenient to explain the differences in orders through anthropomorphic examples. However, this approach not only violates architectural principles but also negatively impacts body positivity. It is important to understand that using human characteristics to describe architectural concepts can create a distorted picture, distracting from the essence of the problem. It is necessary to find more correct and respectful ways of explanation that will not contribute to the formation of negative stereotypes and will help to maintain a positive view of diversity in architecture and design.

Reading is an important aspect of our lives that helps develop thinking and broaden horizons. It not only helps us acquire new information but also improves our analytical and critical thinking skills. Regularly reading books, articles, and other materials enriches our inner world and makes us more educated. It is important to choose a variety of sources of information to gain a more complete understanding of the world. Remember that reading is not only a form of entertainment but also a powerful tool for personal growth and development.

Style: A Visual Guide to the Eras

A visual guide to the eras is a unique tool that allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of various historical styles and movements. Each era has its own characteristic features that reflect the cultural, social, and artistic changes of its time. In this context, it is important to consider how visual elements such as architecture, painting, and fashion contribute to the formation of the individual style of each era.

From antiquity to the modern era, each era leaves its mark on art and design. Ancient civilizations such as Ancient Rome and Greece laid the foundations for classical architecture and sculpture. The Middle Ages brought the Gothic style, distinguished by majestic cathedrals and intricate stained glass windows. The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in ancient traditions, leading to the creation of masterpieces of painting and architecture.

The Baroque period is distinguished by its opulence and drama, while Modernism and Postmodernism represent a response to traditional values, offering new approaches to form and function. Each style embodies the ideals and values ​​of its time, reflecting changing perceptions of the world.

Studying the visual language of different eras not only helps us better understand art history but also inspires contemporary design solutions. This visual guide to eras is a valuable resource for anyone interested in art, design, and history, providing an opportunity to see how the past shapes our present.

The anthropomorphic nature of the order is greatly exaggerated, and comparing the columns to the body proportions of men, women, and girls negatively impacts our perception and image of our own bodies. Such associations can distort ideas about the body and its ideals, contributing to the development of complexes and low self-esteem. It is important to realize that everyone is an individual, and beauty standards should not define the way we perceive ourselves.

Classical architectural orders are not related to the proportions of the human body. Their proportions were formed based on other aesthetic principles and mathematical patterns. These orders serve as a basis for creating harmonious architectural solutions, but do not reflect human anatomical characteristics. Understanding this aspect allows for a deeper appreciation of architectural styles and their influence on the perception of space.

This can be roughly imagined as a figure dressed in pleated clothing and having a head resembling a capital. While such analogies are possible, they remain rather abstract and are not tied to a specific gender or age.

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In this article, I intend to dispel this misconception and urge you to abandon this analogy forever.

Orders in architecture are stylistic elements that determine the appearance of columns and buildings as a whole. There are several types of orders, among which the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian stand out. Each of them has its own characteristics and differences, which influences the perception of an architectural style.

The Doric order is the simplest and most austere of all. It is characterized by massive columns with smooth shafts and minimal decoration. The Ionic order, on the contrary, is more graceful, with slender columns decorated with scrolls on the capitals. The Corinthian order is the most decorative, with rich ornamentation and graceful proportions.

The gender analogy associated with these orders arose as a result of historical interpretations, but it has no serious basis. This concept is not only misleading but also distracts from the true significance of the orders as an important element of architectural aesthetics. It is better to focus on their characteristics and unique features that make each style distinct and memorable.

The three orders represent three unique architectural systems used in different contexts. Two of these orders—the Doric and Ionic—emerged in ancient Greece, while the third—the Corinthian—also originated in Greece but was fully developed during the Roman Empire. Each of these orders has its own distinctive features and style, making them important elements of classical architecture. The Doric order is characterized by simplicity and massiveness, the Ionic by elegance and grace, and the Corinthian by a wealth of decorative elements. These architectural styles continue to influence modern construction and design, highlighting their significance in architectural history.

There are many other types of orders known to the Romans, but in this context, we will focus on the three main ones that are fundamental.

Distinguishing columns by their capitals is the easiest and most common approach. However, it is important to remember that capitals are not the only difference. An order encompasses many aspects: structural, artistic, historical, and aesthetic characteristics. Different orders have different proportions, origins, and meanings. In this article, we will focus exclusively on columns and their capitals, exploring the features and variations of these architectural elements.

The Doric order is distinguished by its simple and logical capital. The proportions of the column in this order are the squattest of all the classical orders. The Doric style is characterized by strict lines and minimalist decoration, which gives it a special expressiveness and harmony.

The Ionic order is distinguished by an elongated column shape and a unique capital, decorated with characteristic curls known as volutes. This architectural style, which originated in Ancient Greece, emphasizes elegance and sophistication, which makes it popular in classical architecture. The use of Ionic columns gives buildings lightness and grace, which is especially noticeable in temples and public buildings.

The Corinthian order is the most elegant of the three classical orders, characterized by slender columns. The capital of this order has a complex architectural form, reminiscent of a bush with graceful leaves. This style was actively used in ancient Greek architecture and became a symbol of sophistication and elegance. The Corinthian order is often used in modern architectural solutions, giving buildings a unique and majestic look.

The idea of ​​the anthropomorphic nature of the order has its roots in the works of Vitruvius, who is considered the author of the first treatise on architecture. This prominent Roman architect and engineer lived in the first century BC. His work had a significant influence on architectural theory, linking human proportions with architectural forms. Vitruvius argued that the harmony and symmetry inherent in the human body should be reflected in architectural elements. This understanding of anthropomorphism in the order became the basis for many architectural styles and schools, emphasizing the importance of the connection between man and the space around him.

Vitruvius argues in his writings that...

Architectural proportions play a key role in the creation of aesthetically pleasing buildings. The correct relationship between elements in architecture is as important as the proportions of the human body for sculptors. The ability to find harmony in forms and sizes not only gives buildings beauty but also creates a sense of integrity and comfort for the people who surround them. Proportions in architecture can influence the perception of space and shape the atmosphere, which makes them an important aspect of design.

It is important to consider proportions, but it is not necessary to follow the proportions of the human body, although they are considered harmonious. We will not dispute this statement. In this context, we are talking about more than just human proportions. The main thing is to understand that proportions play a key role in creating harmonious compositions. They influence perception and can significantly change the overall impression of a work. Proportions are important in any art form, be it painting, sculpture, or design. Correct use of proportions helps achieve visual balance and aesthetic satisfaction.

In the Archaic period, a specific proportion was used to create columns based on the human body. The main parameter was the ratio of foot length to height. For men, corresponding to the Doric order, this ratio was one-sixth of height, while for women, represented in the Ionic order, it was one-eighth of the average height. These proportions became the basis for the further development of architectural styles and their visual harmony.

In the proportioning of the order, only one parameter based on human proportions was taken into account. This was the ratio of the column's width at the base to its height, as well as the average foot length in relation to the average human height. These parameters play a key role in architectural design, allowing for the creation of harmonious and aesthetically pleasing structures.

The length of a foot is an insufficient parameter for creating a column analogous to the human body. It is significantly shorter than the width of the shoulders or the width of the hips, making it ineffective in conveying human proportions and anatomical features.

This proportion was used exclusively in the Archaic period, at the beginning of the formation of the order in the 7th–6th centuries BC. Later, architects began experimenting with thinner supports, made possible by improved technology. They replaced the original proportions of 6 and 8 with 7 and 9. Thus, classical columns created in Greece in the 5th century BC deliberately departed from proportions corresponding to the real, even ideal, human body. This transition marked an important stage in the development of architectural style, reflecting a desire for innovation and aesthetic experimentation. Orders generally considered classical do not possess this characteristic. This is an important aspect to consider when analyzing their characteristics. Classic orders are often used in various trading strategies, and the absence of certain parameters can affect their effectiveness.

Vitruvius recounts a legend associated with the Corinthian capital: its shape supposedly resembles a basket of toys left on the grave of a young girl. However, it should be noted that this is merely a myth, explaining only the capital's appearance, not the proportions of the female body. Although the legend mentions a girl, her physique has no relation to the features of the Corinthian capital.

Nevertheless, this was enough for future researchers of the order to begin drawing analogies with the proportions of the human body, constantly referring to male, female, and female. This led to the creation of a distorted understanding of both the order and the human physical appearance.

The idea of ​​the anthropomorphic nature of the order is reflected in the caryatid portico on the Erechtheum, where female figures are depicted instead of columns. However, it is important to pay attention to the proportions and details of this architectural element. The Erechtheum, located on the Acropolis in Athens, demonstrates a unique combination of aesthetics and functionality, making it an outstanding example of ancient Greek architecture. Caryatids serve not only as a support but also as an artistic expression, emphasizing the interaction between man and architecture. Consideration of these aspects allows for a deeper understanding of the meaning and role of anthropomorphic elements in architectural design.

The caryatids don't simply support the roof; their proportions correspond to the ideals of beauty of ancient Greek sculpture. Unlike Ionic columns, they have a unique form and expression. A comparison with the columns of the Erechtheum portico, located to the left, highlights this difference: the Erechtheum columns are significantly taller and more slender. Caryatids are not only an architectural element, but also a symbol of the artistic skill of ancient Greek masters.

Let's refute the idea of ​​​​drawing an analogy between a capital and a head with a hairstyle. Caryatids, like statues, bear a Doric capital on their heads, decorated with Ionic elements. This serves as a transitional link between the vertical support and the horizontal beam. It is impossible to replace the capital with a head, since it performs an important architectural function, ensuring the stability and harmony of the structure.

There is a widespread belief that the Doric order was intended exclusively for temples of male deities, while the Ionic was used for temples of female deities. However, this statement is easily refuted using the example of the Athenian Acropolis. The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is executed in the Doric style, while the Erechtheum, which is also dedicated to Athena and Poseidon, is presented in the Ionic style. Following this logic, one might assume that Corinthian temples were dedicated exclusively to Artemis, which is erroneous. This analysis reveals that the connection between architectural styles and deities is not as simple as it might initially appear and requires further study.

It is recommended to avoid using the analogy of "masculine" and "feminine" in the context of the orders. This will help avoid misunderstandings and stereotypes related to gender identity. Instead, it is advisable to use neutral and precise terms that reflect the essence of the orders and their functional characteristics. This will help create a more inclusive and professional atmosphere in the discussion of this topic.

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